SmallGovTimes.com

By: SGT News | Published on 07/30/08    

The National Taxpayer's Union released data today that suggests just how powerful Alaska Senator Ted Stevens, who is under investigation for taking bribes, really is. The Senator managed to bring his state over $3 billion in earmark spending over the last 4 years.

"The new research has found that Senator Stevens has secured or played a significant role in securing more than 891 earmarks worth $3.2 billion, which comes to $4,872 per capita over the last four years. This is more than 18 times the national average of $263 per capita for the same four years.

"This number is higher than the numbers reported by others because TCS researchers have obtained the locations of many of the defense earmarks which typically are not disclosed.

"While some might believe that Alaska will take a big hit in earmarks, it is likely that Senator Stevens' long shadow and close friendships, particularly with Defense Appropriations Subcommittee Chair Senator Daniel Inouye (D-HI), will ensure Alaska continues to get more than its fair share."

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